Pronunciation: ˌ le- ˌ s ā - ' fer, ˌ l ā -, - ˌ z ā -
Function: noun
Etymology: French laissez faire, imperative of laisser faire to let (people) do (as they choose)
Date: 1825
1 : a doctrine opposing governmental interference in economic affairs beyond the minimum necessary for the maintenance of peace and property rights
2 : a philosophy or practice characterized by a usually deliberate abstention from direction or interference especially with individual freedom of choice and action
– laissez-faire adjective